Brenham

This county seat is in Washington County, where the Texas Declaration of Independence was drafted and signed. It is home to more than 120 historic sites and markers, including many from the Texas Revolution era. Its predominantly German population began settling here in the 1860s.

Bluebonnets and other wildflowers bloom in profusion here in March and April. The chamber of commerce provides a free "Bluebonnet Trails" map that outlines the most scenic route.

Brenham has been named a National Main Street City, and its downtown is the heart and soul of Washington County. It features a variety of shopping opportunities. Nearby Fireman's Park features an enclosed antique C.W. Parker carousel with Herschell-Spillman horses. The area has more than 40 bed-and-breakfast inns.

Brenham lies halfway between Houston and Austin on U.S. 290 and on Texas 36, which is a segment of the Ports-to-Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.